GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 3289-20 Holding Fixture
    • J 8092 Universal Driver
    • J 8614-01 Flange and Pulley Holding Tool
    • J 35582 Oil Pump Seal Installer
    • J 36371 Output Shaft Bearing Installer
    • J 36850 Transjel Lubricant
    • J 37212 Front Output Shaft Seal Installer
    • J 45759 Assembly Fixture
    • J 45933 Isuzu Transfer Case Assembly/Disassembly Kit
    • J 45934 Input Seal Installer
    • J 45936 Control Actuator Shaft Bushing Installer
    • J 45937 Rear Output Shaft Retaining Ring Installer
    • J 46199 Front Output Shaft Bearing Remover and Installer

    Object Number: 909223  Size: SH
  1. If disassembled, install the 2/4 shift fork and spring on the shift shaft.

  2. Object Number: 909221  Size: SH
  3. Compress the spring on the 2/4 shift fork in a vise.
  4. Install the retaining ring.

  5. Object Number: 909216  Size: SH
  6. If disassembled, install the high/low shift fork on the shift shaft. Position the fork, as shown, on the shift shaft.
  7. Install the roll pin in the shift fork until flush.

  8. Object Number: 909212  Size: SH
  9. Install the spring seat (252), the spring (253) and the block collar (254) in the shift block (256).

  10. Object Number: 909209  Size: SH
  11. Install the inner retaining ring over a socket.
  12. Install the socket and the block in a vise to compress the spring.
  13. Install the inner retaining ring in the block.

  14. Object Number: 909206  Size: SH
  15. Using a vise, compress the spring in the high/low shift block.
  16. Install the retaining ring on the shift rail.

  17. Object Number: 909477  Size: SH
  18. If removed, using retaining compound GM P/N 12377901 (Canadian P/N 10953504), or equivalent, install the vent or breather hose pipes. Ensure the pipes are properly aligned.

  19. Object Number: 909227  Size: SH
  20. Mount the front case half to the J 45759 with 4 bolts.
  21. Install the J 45759  (2) into the J 3289-20  (1).

  22. Object Number: 1208548  Size: SH
  23. If removed, using the J 45936 , install the control actuator shaft bushing.
  24. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 909158  Size: SH
  25. If removed, install the breather baffle and bolt.
  26. Tighten
    Tighten the breather baffle bolt to 6.5 N·m (58 lb in).


    Object Number: 909228  Size: SH
  27. Using the J 36371 , install a new front output shaft front bearing in the front case half.

  28. Object Number: 909162  Size: SH
  29. Install a new retaining ring for the front output shaft front bearing.

  30. Object Number: 909246  Size: SH
  31. Install the carrier bearing outer retaining ring in the front case half.

  32. Object Number: 909237  Size: SH
  33. Lubricate the annulus gear dampener with transfer case fluid.
  34. Install the dampener in the case.

  35. Object Number: 909147  Size: SH
  36. Install the annulus gear in the front case. Ensure the dampener is still in the correct position.

  37. Object Number: 909238  Size: SH
  38. Using the J 45933-2 (1) and the J 45933-3 (2) of the J 45933 , compress the dampener under the annulus gear.
  39. • Use the J 45933-2 (1) with the step in the annulus gear.
    • Use the J 45933-3 (2) in the bore of the input seal.
    • Compress the dampener until the groove for the annulus retaining ring is exposed.

    Object Number: 1208554  Size: SH
  40. Install the spiral retaining ring for the annulus gear.
  41. Remove the J 45933 and ensure the spiral retaining ring is fully seated.

  42. Object Number: 909239  Size: SH
  43. Using the J 45933-1 (1) and the J 45933-2 (2) of the J 45933 , install the input shaft bearing in the planetary carrier.
  44. • For ease of installing the bearing, use a vise to hold the nut and the threaded shaft.
    • Stack the J 45933-2 and the planetary carrier over the threaded shaft.
    • In order to install the input shaft bearing at the proper depth, use the side of the J 45933-1 with the step against the bearing.

    Object Number: 909243  Size: SH
  45. Using the J 45933-3 (1) and the J 45933-2 (2) of the J 45933 , install the bearing on the planetary carrier.
  46. • The retaining ring groove on the bearing goes toward the planetary carrier.
    • For ease of installing the bearing, use a vise to hold the nut and the threaded shaft.
    • Stack the J 45933-2 and the planetary carrier over the threaded shaft.

    Object Number: 909004  Size: SH
  47. Install the planetary carrier bearing retaining ring.

  48. Object Number: 908999  Size: SH
  49. Install the input shaft thrust bearing.

  50. Object Number: 908987  Size: SH
  51. Install the input shaft in the planetary carrier assembly.

  52. Object Number: 908983  Size: SH
  53. If using the planetary carrier and planetary carrier low gear again, align the marks from disassembly.
  54. Install the planetary carrier low gear. The side with the thrust surface faces toward the input shaft.
  55. Install the planetary carrier low gear retaining ring.

  56. Object Number: 909483  Size: SH

    Important: Ensure the snap ring pliers do not catch on the ribs of the case. The retaining ring must be fully opened and retracted in the groove.

  57. Using a large pair of snap ring pliers, spread the carrier bearing retaining ring.
  58. While the retaining ring is spread, install the planetary carrier assembly.
  59. Ensure the retaining ring is secured on the planetary carrier bearing.

  60. Object Number: 908978  Size: SH
  61. Install the rear output shaft front support bearing.
  62. Using J 36850 , pack the bearing.

  63. Object Number: 909251  Size: SH
  64. Using a hydraulic press, install the 2/4 synchronizer hub.
  65. • The non-shoulder side of the hub aligns to the rear of the rear output shaft.
    • Ensure the hub is supported on the shoulder flange, not on the external hub teeth.

    Object Number: 908967  Size: SH
  66. Install the synchronizer hub retaining ring.

  67. Object Number: 909256  Size: SH
  68. Install the rear spring on the synchronizer hub.
  69. Align the spring ends by the insert slots.
  70. Install the front spring, with the ends opposite from the rear spring, on the synchronizer hub.
  71. Align the spring ends by the insert slots.

  72. Object Number: 909260  Size: SH
  73. Install the three synchronizer inserts in the synchronizer hub.
  74. Install the synchronizer sleeve.
  75. • The sleeve shoulder with the groove aligns forward.
    • Align the flat teeth of the sleeve with the insert.
    • Push in on the inserts.

    Object Number: 909264  Size: SH
  76. Install the high/low range sleeve.

  77. Object Number: 909270  Size: SH
  78. Install the high/low shift fork assembly (255) to the high/low range sleeve.
  79. Install the 2/4 shift fork assembly (243) to the 2/4 synchronizer sleeve.
  80. Align the shift blocks as shown.

  81. Object Number: 909276  Size: SH
  82. Lubricate the shift shaft holes in the front case with transfer case fluid.
  83. Install the rear output shaft, with the shift forks, to the front case half.
  84. • Hold the shift forks in position to the sleeves.
    • Install the shift shafts in the holes in the case.
    • Align the high/low range sleeve teeth with the planetary low gear teeth.

    Object Number: 909352  Size: SH
  85. Install the rollers on the shift forks.

  86. Object Number: 909356  Size: SH
  87. Install the control actuator cam. The smaller recess on the cam goes up and faces toward the shift rails.
  88. Rotate the control actuator cam to align to the shift forks.
  89. Install the control actuator shaft. Align the large spline on the shaft with the large groove in the cam.

  90. Object Number: 909362  Size: SH
  91. Install the 2/4 synchronizer blocking ring. Align the tabs on the ring with the insert grooves on the synchronizer hub.
  92. Install the 2/4 synchronizer middle ring.
  93. Install the 2/4 synchronizer inner ring.

  94. Object Number: 909364  Size: SH
  95. Lubricate the journal on the rear output shaft, for the drive sprocket, with transfer case fluid.
  96. With the blue link pointing to the rear case, install the chain on the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket.
  97. Install the chain, the front output shaft and the drive gear.
  98. Rotate the drive gear to align with the tabs on the 2/4 synchronizer rings.
  99. Inspect to ensure the drive gear and the rear output shaft assembly are installed properly. View the chain from the side. The chain links will be parallel to the case sealing flange. If the chain links are not parallel to the case, disassemble until the condition is found.

  100. Object Number: 909367  Size: SH
  101. Install the drive gear thrust washer. Align the thrust washer teeth with the flat area on the rear output shaft.

  102. Object Number: 909371  Size: SH

    Important: The drive sprocket retaining rings are select fit. Use only a new retaining ring.

  103. Select the thickest drive sprocket retaining ring that will fit in the groove. Four sizes are available.
  104. Install the drive sprocket retaining ring.
  105. Measure the retaining ring outside diameter. If the measured diameter is larger than the specified range, use a thinner retaining ring.
  106. Specification
    Retaining ring outside diameter: 53.0 +/- 0.5 mm (1.969 +/- 0.020 in)


    Object Number: 909486  Size: SH

    Important: 

       • Use the thrust bearing between the J 45933-4 (1) and a washer.
       • Ensure the threads of the threaded shaft on the J 45933 are lubricated with the supplied lubricant.

  107. If removed, install the rear bushing in the rear case, using the J 45933-4 (1) and the J 45933-3 (2) of the J 45933 .
  108. • Align the holes of the bushing with the oil grooves in the case.
    • The bushing installed depth is just past the shoulder in the case.

    Object Number: 909481  Size: SH
  109. If necessary, install the shift shaft plugs. Use threadlocker GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489), or equivalent, on the plugs.

  110. Object Number: 909374  Size: SH
  111. Using J 8092  (1) and J 46199  (2), install the front output shaft rear bearing. The part numbers on the bearing align away from the case and toward the tool.

  112. Object Number: 909378  Size: SH
  113. Position the speed sensor reluctor wheel in the rear case half, with the oil grooved side toward the inside of the rear case half.

  114. Object Number: 909382  Size: SH
  115. Install the rear output shaft bearing in the rear case half, using the J 45933-3 (1) and the J 45933-1 (2) of the J 45933 .
  116. • Use the single shoulder side of the J 45933-3 in the rear seal bore.
    • Ensure the bearing is being installed square to the bearing bore.
    • Install the bearing until it bottoms in the bearing bore.

    Object Number: 909386  Size: SH
  117. Install the rear output shaft bearing retaining ring.

  118. Object Number: 909393  Size: SH
  119. Install the oil pump wire retaining ring, with the ends aligning in the larger open area of the bore.

  120. Object Number: 909424  Size: SH
  121. Prelube the oil pump.
  122. 76.1. Pour a small quantity of transfer case fluid in the oil suction pipe fitting.
    76.2. Rotate the oil pump gear a few turns.
  123. Install the oil pump suction hose to the oil pump.
  124. Install the oil pump suction hose to the oil pump screen.

  125. Object Number: 909395  Size: SH
  126. Install the oil pump, with the screen, in the rear case half. Push on the oil pump and it will snap into position.
  127. Install the oil pump suction tube bolt.
  128. Tighten
    Tighten the suction tube bolt to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).


    Object Number: 908934  Size: SH
  129. Install the oil deflector and bolts.
  130. Tighten
    Tighten the deflector bolts to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).


    Object Number: 909399  Size: SH

    Notice: Apply the proper amount of sealant to the flange when assembling the transfer case. Excessive amounts of sealant can plug the oil pump screen, resulting in internal component failure.

    Important: 

       • Ensure that the sealing surfaces of the front and rear case halves are free of dirt, oil and cleaning solvent.
       • Ensure the locating pins are installed in the front case half. Install the locating pins if necessary.

  131. Apply a 3 mm (1/8 in) bead of flange sealant GM P/N 12378517 (Canadian P/N 88900757) to the sealing flange on the rear case half. Apply the sealer evenly to the inside surface of the bolt holes, with no gaps.

  132. Object Number: 909400  Size: SH

    Important: The locating pins must be installed in the front case half.

  133. If necessary, install the locating pins in the front case half.
  134. Install the rear case half.
  135. • Rotate the input shaft to allow the rear output shaft to align with the speed sensor reluctor wheel splines.
    • Lightly tap down on the rear case half to fully install on the locating pins.

    Object Number: 908863  Size: SH
  136. Install the case half bolts.
  137. Tighten
    Tighten the case half bolts to 22 N·m (16 lb ft).


    Object Number: 909404  Size: SH
  138. Position a new rear output shaft retaining ring over the rear output shaft.
  139. Important: Push inward against the input shaft to expose the retaining ring groove and allow the retaining ring to seat fully into the groove.

  140. Using the J 45937 , install the retaining ring. Tap lightly, or use hand pressure on the J 45937 until the retaining ring installs in the groove.

  141. Object Number: 909412  Size: SH
  142. Using the J 35582 with a hammer, install the rear output shaft seal.

  143. Object Number: 909414  Size: SH
  144. Install the control actuator shaft seal flush to the case surface. The spring side installs to the inside.

  145. Object Number: 909417  Size: SH
  146. Using the J 45934 with a hammer, install the input shaft seal.

  147. Object Number: 909420  Size: SH
  148. Using the J 37212 with a hammer, install the front output shaft seal.

  149. Object Number: 1542368  Size: SH

    Important: Depending on design levels, this transfer case may or may not have an additional spring nesting inside the high/low shift shaft detent.

  150. Install the detent springs and balls.
  151. Apply GM P/N 12346004 (Canadian P/N 10953480) to the threads on the detent plugs.
  152. Install the detent plugs.
  153. Tighten
    Tighten the detent plugs to 19 N·m (14 lb ft).


    Object Number: 908856  Size: SH
  154. Install the yoke flange on the front output shaft.
  155. Lightly lubricate a new yoke flange O-ring with transfer case fluid.
  156. Install the yoke flange O-ring.
  157. Install a new yoke flange nut.

  158. Object Number: 908850  Size: SH
  159. Install the J 8614-01 to assist in tightening the yoke flange nut.
  160. Tighten
    Tighten the yoke flange nut to 137 N·m (101 lb ft).


    Object Number: 908841  Size: SH
  161. Remove the J 8614-01 .
  162. Using a suitable punch, stake the yoke flange nut in 2 places.

  163. Object Number: 908833  Size: SH
  164. Install the 2/4 switch assembly (316) with the copper gasket. The 2/4 switch has the gray wiring harness connector.
  165. Tighten
    Tighten the 2/4 switch to 39 N·m (29 lb ft).

  166. Install the NEUTRAL start switch (307) with the copper gasket. The NEUTRAL start switch has the brown wiring harness connector.
  167. Tighten
    Tighten the NEUTRAL switch to 39 N·m (29 lb ft).


    Object Number: 908823  Size: SH
  168. Install the switch connector bracket and spacer.
  169. Install the connector bracket bolt.
  170. Tighten
    Tighten the connector bracket bolt to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

  171. Install the wiring harness connectors, for the switches, into the switch connector bracket.

  172. Object Number: 908819  Size: SH

    Important: Do not rotate the actuator assembly shaft to align with the control actuator shaft.

  173. Install the actuator assembly and the new O-ring seal.
  174. Install the actuator assembly bolts and wire harness bracket.
  175. Tighten
    Tighten the actuator assembly bolts to 22 N·m (16 lb ft).


    Object Number: 908813  Size: SH
  176. Install the vent hose to the actuator assembly.
  177. Install the breather hose.

  178. Object Number: 908805  Size: SH
  179. Install the vehicle speed sensor (VSS) and O-ring seal.
  180. Tighten
    Tighten the VSS to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).


    Object Number: 908802  Size: SH
  181. Install a new O-ring gasket on the drain plug and the fill plug.
  182. Install the drain plug (15) and the fill plug (10).
  183. Tighten
    Tighten the drain plug and fill plug to 39 N·m (29 lb ft).

  184. Remove the transfer case from the J 3289-20 .
  185. Remove the J 45759 from the transfer case.